What is the difference between tadelakt and Microcement?

Author: Prof. Braxton West  |  Last update: Saturday, November 1, 2025

Tadelakt is a lime plaster and microcement is a cement-based material.

Is tadelakt better than microcement?

While Tadelakt relies on lime plaster, a tried-and-tested material with its own merits, microcement, being cement-based, offers a modern twist with enhanced durability and versatility, making it a preferred choice for contemporary design projects.

What is a cheaper alternative to tadelakt?

A less expensive alternative are our traditional lime stuccos based on high quality hydrated lime. My lime stuccos are also suitable for outdoor use and showers, with the same restrictions as described above for Tadelakt . They are visually indistinguishable from Tadelakt, but cost a little more than half the price.

Why is tadelakt so expensive?

“Tadelakt is more expensive than entry-level tile or solid surfaces,” says Baldoni. “One also needs to ensure the lime plastering is done by experienced individuals who know what they're doing. Mixing, polishing, and adding dye to it to create the color of your choice and waterproofing requires skill.

Is tadelakt high maintenance?

It is not difficult to maintain tadelakt surfaces. To maintain the water-repellent property, tadelakt must be regularly re-soaped in splash water areas. Sharp, acidic cleaning agents should be avoided at all costs. Tadelakt may only be cleaned and maintained with Marseille soap.

SHOWER PLASTER -Tadelakt - Everything you need to know - Vasari Lime Plaster & Paint

What are the disadvantages of Tadelakt?

Cons of tadelakt:

Can crack if not cared for properly. Needs ongoing maintenance – Just like any other natural stone, tadelakt will need to be re-sealed with the special olive oil soap to maintain its waterproof properties.

Is Tadelakt more expensive than tiling?

Recoating with the soap solution regularly will ensure your gorgeous tadelakt stays intact and in great condition, but really, that's it. Now, in terms of cost, yes, it will run you considerably more than a standard install of subway tile from Lowes, for instance.

How much does Tadelakt cost per square foot?

How much does it cost to have Tadelakt installed Professionally? Prices vary considerably for professional Tadelakt installation. A good range is $30 to $50 per square foot for a Tadelakt Finish in a wet area.

How long does Tadelakt last?

Tadelakt needs skilled pros to apply 6-7 layers and polish with stones and soap. The plaster resists mold, is easy to clean, and comes in many colors. With proper care, Tadelakt can last for years and may boost home value.

Why did my Tadelakt crack?

If you are someone who embraces the wabi-sabi of natural stone or wood, you will appreciate the variability and unique beauty of tadelakt. Character: Traditional tadelakt darkens and shows micro-cracks every time it gets wet. These cracks are part of the nature of the material.

What can I use instead of microcement?

Sphere8 resin wall finishes are the perfect micro cement walls alternatives! Our resin wall finish is waterproof and perfect for any environment. Micro cement walls are often waterproof, but are not always the most effective.

Does tadelakt stain?

Whilst it is strong, tadelakt is a lime plaster and doesn't have the same strength as cement. It can be prone to chipping and staining, and if it's an original tadelakt, needs to be maintained with regular soaping and/or waxing to retain it's water-resistent properties.

What is Moroccan black soap for tadelakt?

Black Soap is produced by boiling olive oil with potassium hydroxide. In Morocco, this highly refatting soap is traditionally used as a household cleaner as well as for personal care. Moreover it is used as a protective treatment for Tadelakt surfaces.

What are the downsides of Microcement?

Fissures, cracks, undesirable textures, and detachment are potential problems if microcement is not applied professionally. To avoid these issues, it's essential to hire a skilled microcement applicator who pays attention to detail and follows proper procedures.

Is Venetian plaster the same as Tadelakt?

Tadelakt or Moroccan plaster shares the same lime base as the other surfaces but differs from Venetian plaster and limewash in both finish and durability. Somewhat laborious to render, Tadelakt plaster requires around seven or eight plaster applications and specialist knowledge to install, but the results are lasting.

How do you pronounce Tadelakt?

Tadelakt (pronounced ta-dee-lact) is a form of lime plaster that is mixed and applied by hand creating subtle variations in pigmentation that give surfaces a tactile, organic feel.

Can I do Tadelakt myself?

You can apply the best Tadelakt Moroccan plaster yourself using a range of specialised tools. You apply the plaster using trowels of varying shapes that serve different purposes depending on the type of surface, space, or area to which you are applying it.

Can you put Tadelakt on drywall?

Tadelakt Finish can be applied over primed level-4 finished drywall or primed previously painted surfaces.

What is an alternative to Tadelakt?

Microcement is a decorative coating made up of cement, water-based resins, and mineral pigments. The material stands out because it can be applied directly over existing material without the need to remove the existing surface. It is also well suited for both indoor and outdoor use.

Is microcement waterproof?

Yes, microcement is waterproof. When applied correctly, microcement forms a strong barrier against water, making it perfect for areas prone to moisture like bathrooms and kitchens.

What is the most cost effective shower wall?

Acrylic panels

A completely non-porous and waterproof material, it can be used to cover a full wall or as a decorative wainscoting wall accent. Acrylic is one of the most cost-effective materials for your bathroom.

Can you use Tadelakt in a shower?

Tadelakt is designed for use in wet areas like showers, tub surrounds, and backsplashes. It can also be used for decorative dry area applications, and outdoors.

How much do contractors charge to tile a shower?

The average cost to tile a shower is around $2,700, which includes the tile, setting materials, and professional installation, but it can go up to $10,000 or more.

Is Tadelakt shiny?

Since it is applied as a paste, tadelakt has a soft, undulating character, it can form curves, and it is seamless. Pigment can be added to give it any colour, but deep red is traditional. It may have a shiny or matte finish.

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